Italian elegance officially found its place in Mactan, Cebu with the opening of Spiaggia, and we were fortunate to experience it firsthand. Located on the 25th floor—the penthouse—of The Reef Island Resort Mactan, Spiaggia immediately impressed us with its relaxed sophistication and breathtaking views.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear that Spiaggia was designed to be more than just a restaurant. With its sweeping 240-degree views of Mactan’s sparkling waters and the Cebu City skyline, the space felt intimate yet grand—perfect for a romantic dinner, a special celebration, or a leisurely evening spent savoring good food and wine.
Chef John Grupo with Head Mixologist Fred Obach
The menu focused on handcrafted pastas, artisan pizzas, and well-loved Italian classics, all prepared with care and attention to detail. Chef John Grupo personally curated the dishes served to us that evening, giving us a wonderful introduction to Spiaggia’s culinary direction.
We began with a crisp and refreshing Romaine Salad, followed by the comforting richness of Bucatini All’Amatriciana. The Verdura Pizza was light yet flavorful, while the Antipasto Platter offered a delightful mix of textures and tastes. One of the highlights of the night was the Whole Roasted Branzino, beautifully cooked and simply seasoned, allowing the freshness of the fish to shine.
Gamberoni Alla Griglia
Polpo e Vongole
Chef Grupo also introduced Spiaggia’s exclusive specialty dishes, available only at the restaurant. The Gamberoni Alla Griglia stood out with its bold yet balanced flavors, while the Polpo e Vongole delivered a satisfying blend of seafood and Mediterranean flair.
Lemon Sponge Cake
Budino
No Italian dining experience would be complete without dessert, and Spiaggia did not disappoint. We enjoyed the bright, citrusy notes of the Lemon Sponge Cake, followed by the indulgent Budino, a rich dark chocolate dessert paired perfectly with smooth anglaise.
Complementing the food was an impressive wine list, thoughtfully curated by experienced sommeliers. The selection featured both Italian and international wines, making it easy to find the perfect pairing—or discover something new.
With its stunning location, thoughtfully prepared dishes, and attentive service, Spiaggia left a lasting impression. It felt like a destination where every detail—from the view to the last bite—was carefully considered.
Spiaggia officially opened to the public on December 22 and operated daily from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM at The Reef Island Resort Mactan. Reservations could be made by calling 0968 695 4035.
Managed and operated by The Abaca Group, Cebu’s leading homegrown hospitality firm, Spiaggia is poised to become a must-visit dining destination for those seeking an elevated Italian experience in Cebu.
For updates and more information, follow @theabacagroup, @spiaggia_mactan, and @spiaggiamactan on Facebook and Instagram.
